d&b Workflow for Installation Applications
d&b Workflow for Installation Applications
At the beginning of each installation project, the performance requirements are carefully considered. Architects, consultants, designers, integrators, along with product manufacturers must work together to create unique experiences for our clients. It is important to understand and support each contributor’s needs with a comprehensive plan that is based on information gathered at every stage of the process.
Step 1 – Performance Requirement – Know the Brief from the Client!
The integrated d&b Workflow improves efficiency from the start of a project, through planning and simulation, to control of the final result. The first step is understanding the clients requirements!
Step 2 – Planning and Simulation – Planning to Get it Right!
d&b ArrayCalc Simulation Software
Enter venue data, whether square or round, flat or steep, big or small, into ArrayCalc: the complete d&b system simulation tool. The system defined in ArrayCalc is used to automatically generate the user interface found in the d&b R1 remote control software. This is the point where the client can begin to visualise their venue and the electro-acoustic results that you can expect from your investment into a d&b system.
d&b ArrayCalc Exchange
d&b ArrayCalc Exchange is a SketchUp extension that allows users to convert CAD and EASE files into an ArrayCalc venue file that can be imported directly into ArrayCalc. ArrayCalc Exchange supports system designers in mobile and fixed applications by simplifying the creation of complex venues in ArrayCalc.
d&b NoizCalc
The d&b NoizCalc software uses data from the ArrayCalc simulation software in conjunction with geodata from Google Earth to predict the noise in the surrounding environment from one or more d&b loudspeaker systems by calculating the sound propagation according to international standards.
External Simulation Software
Acoustic simulation tools like EASE can import the ArrayCalc design to verify and calculate STI (Speech Transmission Index) values and to predict SPL with reflections and the reverberation characteristics of the system in your room!
d&b Revit Files
Revit is used in Building Information Modelling (BIM) to support a multidisciplinary approach to construction. Unlike CAD, BIM projects use 3D models that provide a richer visual representation and contain more information about each element. d&b Revit files allow consultants, architects and system integrators to easily include a d&b system in a BIM project.
Step 3 – Control and Operation – Where the “Rubber Meets the Road”
d&b R1 Remote Control Software
The d&b Remote network enables the central control and monitoring of a complete d&b loudspeaker system from anywhere in the network, be it from a computer in the control room, at the mix position, or on a wireless tablet in the auditorium. Through a d&b Remote network, all functions of a d&b system are accessible. Access can be restricted depending on the requirements of the user. Featuring grouped controls, as well as detailed system and device diagnostics, and firmware updates, the d&b Remote network unlocks the full potential of the d&b system approach.
R90 Touchscreen Remote Control
The R90 touchscreen remote control is a 7” panel PC used for quick and reliable end-user operation of day-to-day functions of a pre-configured d&b system, without needing expert level knowledge of audio. The introduction of the R90 further expands the d&b system approach, increasing efficiency and unlocking additional flexibility of d&b loudspeaker systems.
Third-Party Integration and Interoperability
For many applications, integration into a general control and monitoring platform is a mandatory requirement. d&b amplifiers are designed to meet the demands of the broad range of plug-ins from system controllers from manufacturers and technologies on the market, providing complete integration with third party technology.
To ensure that a d&b system satisfies the demands of general operation and an emergency situation, a comprehensive set of features and various software interfaces are available to prepare a d&b system for any scenario in any environment.
Step 4 – Processing and Distribution – Taking Care for the Long Run
d&b Amplifiers
All d&b amplifiers incorporate sophisticated Digital Signal Processing capabilities for comprehensive loudspeaker management: switchable filter functions, remote capabilities, and user-definable controls. d&b amplifiers are designed specifically to power d&b loudspeakers and are the heart of all d&b systems, ensuring a lifetime of virtually maintenance free, trouble free operation – your investment into the future.
Processing and Matrix
DS100 Signal Engine
The DSP platform at the core of d&b Soundscape is the d&b DS100 Signal Engine. A specialized audio processor with Audinate Dante networking, it provides a 64 x 64 audio matrix with level and delay adjustments at all cross points. Comprehensive input processing provides gain, EQ, delay, and polarity switches, enabling users to combine input signals to create a mix from a wide variety of sources. Extended processing capabilities are also provided on every output. Want fully immersive audio? – We’ve got that too!
DS10 Audio Networking Bridge
The DS10 Audio network bridge interfaces between Dante networks and AES3 digital audio signals, while also providing distribution of Ethernet control data. Positioned within the signal chain in front of the amplifiers, this 1 RU device expands the d&b system approach in both mobile and installation environments.
Step 5 – Reproduction – Reliability: Time, after Time, after Time
The loudspeaker at the end of the signal chain transfers all previous planning results and settings to deliver the best audio performance to the audience. All d&b loudspeakers provide:
- scalability
- flexibility
- diversity
- maximum efficiency with dedicated rigging accessories
- specific paint finishes for seamless visual integration or weather protection
Each loudspeaker features trademark d&b qualities: low weight, constant directivity control down to low frequencies, and integrated flying equipment. Many d&b loudspeakers also feature a broadband passively cardioid dispersion pattern.
And Finally…
So you’d like a loudspeaker system for your venue? As you can now see, for a complete solution, it’s not as simple as just placing some speakers in the corner of your room and hitting the “go” button. A well thought out, properly designed, turn key audio system requires a Workflow – planning, delivery, and performance. A true investment into your sound future.